BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer revealed, first premium 7-seat compact

It looks like BMW wants to be the first premium manufacturer to cater for the small MPV market, with the unveiling of this all-new model; the 2 Series Gran Tourer. It’s based on the smaller 2 Series Active Tourer that recently went on sale in Australia.

This is a strange move by BMW, a company usually renowned for producing sedan-based driver’s cars and SUVs. The company calls it the “world’s first premium compact model to offer up to seven seats”. Its nearest competitor is the five-seat Mercedes-Benz B-Class. BMW says,

“The new BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer is a pioneer in uniting the segment’s traditional attributes – such as spatial functionality and comfort – with the hallmark BMW values of dynamics, elegance and premium quality.”

Based on the 2 Series Active Tourer, the Gran Tourer is slightly larger with an overall length of 4556mm, an overall width of 1800mm, and an overall height of 1608mm – compared with 4342mm, 1800mm, and 1555m of the Active Tourer, respectively.

Inside there’s seating for five with a 40:20:40 split-fold middle row offering slide adjustment, as well as an optional third row with two extra seats which can be stored away into the floor of the cargo area. BMW says it stores away by lowering completely into the floor. Cargo space is rated at 645 litres to 805 litres, depending on the middle seat position, and up to 1905 litres with the middle seats folded down.

From initial launch – at least on an international scale – the new 2 Series Gran Tourer will come with five different turbo engine options. Outputs span from 85kW in the case of the 216d, to 100kW in the case of the 218i, 110kW in the case of the 218d, and 141kW in the form of the 220i. A 220d xDrive with all-wheel drive will also be offered in some markets, producing 140kW and 400Nm.

A number of options will be available with the new model, including a Sport Line and Luxury Line trim package, as well as BMW’s traditional M Sport package bringing aero and interior enhancements.

Market entry is expected to take place later this year. BMW Australia is yet to make any official comments in regards to a possible local introduction.

Brett is the editor and founder of PerformanceDrive. He's obsessed with driving, having played with Matchbox cars until he was tall enough to drive a real one. After initially working as a mechanic, Brett earned a degree in journalism and entered media as an editorial assistant at Top Gear Australia magazine. He then worked at CarAdvice.com.au. His dream is to live next door to the Nurburgring in Germany.